Fake News & Social Media Bias Are Platforms of Misinformation!

When discussing misinformation today, two main issues often come up: fake news and social media bias. They are connected, but they work differently and have different effects. Fake news is false information made to deceive. It spreads quickly. A single false story can go viral in minutes, influencing opinions, elections, and public safety. It’s emotionally driven, sensational, and dramatic, which makes people share it. Fake news is powerful, but its influence is usually brief and intense. 

Social-media bias functions differently. It’s usually not about lies but about which truths, half-truths, and opinions the platform promotes. Algorithms favor content that keeps us engaged, and engagement tends to lean toward extremes, emotion, and familiarity. Over time, this creates echo chambers—spaces where people mostly encounter ideas they already agree with. This affects what we notice, what we overlook, and what we perceive as normal. If fake news is like a lightning strike, social-media bias is like the climate. One is sudden; the other is ongoing. Because it’s continuous, social media bias generally has a greater long-term impact. It determines which stories gain prominence, which fade away, and ultimately, which falsehoods have the chance to spread. 

So, where does that leave us with the idea of truth? Truth isn’t confined to a single publication, platform, or political group. Instead, it shines through when information passes three important tests: cross-checking, transparency, and a variety of perspectives. When different sources, especially those with differing views, still come together and agree on certain facts, those are the ones most likely to be true. So, the real question isn’t just “Which is worse?”

The key question is: how can we safeguard our capacity to discover the truth? The answer begins with awareness, recognizing how fake news can impact us instantly and how social media bias can influence us over time. Fake news distorts events, while social-media bias warps reality. Ultimately, truth is what remains after both are questioned. 

Have a Peaceful & Stress-Free Thanksgiving!

    I always wondered how my mom handled Thanksgiving like a pro. Every year, without fail, she seemed to glide through the chaos of the holiday with a calm efficiency that felt almost magical. She would prepare so many dinner items—turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, yams, greens, pies, breads, and things I can barely remember now—enough food to feed at least six people at the table and still have plenty left over. And it wasn’t just leftovers for us. My mom always made sure there was extra to take to neighbors or to give to the lonely seniors in our community who didn’t have anyone to celebrate with. She never made a big deal about it; she simply packed up plates, covered them in foil, and had us deliver them with a warm smile, as though it were the most ordinary thing in the world.

    Now I find myself doing the same thing. It’s funny—or maybe it’s inevitable—how we tend to inherit the habits of those who raised us. I never set out with a grand plan to copy her traditions, but over the years, I noticed that I was shopping for the same ingredients, using the same oversized pots, and somehow ending up with the same overflowing countertops. And when my wife sees someone who might be spending the holiday alone, I can hear her voice softly urging me to make just a little extra. So I do. I cook, I package, I share. Part of me hopes I’m honoring her memory; another part suspects I’m only now beginning to really understand the quiet, generous rhythm of her heart. 

    I often think that those who are truly blessed might feel inspired to share with others—not because they have to, but because they genuinely feel thankful. It seems like a heartfelt way to express appreciation, reminding us that abundance isn’t just for ourselves. Perhaps blessings increase when they’re shared freely. My mother always believed that kindness tends to multiply, even when no one is looking. I’m starting to see what she meant and truly appreciate her love and wisdom. Keep the peace this year, you never know if you'll see the same people back at your table the next year. Remember that we are blessed to break bread together in memory of those who are gone before us.

    What I do know is that two days before Thanksgiving, I am exhausted. Completely, undeniably exhausted. My feet ache, my back complains, and I find myself questioning whether I’ve taken on too much yet again. But even as I stand in the kitchen surrounded by dishes, timers, and grocery bags, I can’t help but feel a quiet warmth settle in. This is the same tiredness my mother must have felt each year, the same mixture of stress and satisfaction. And somehow, that makes the exhaustion feel worth it. It connects me to her, to the people I cook for, and to the spirit of the holiday itself—a reminder that giving, even when it wears you out, can fill you in ways nothing else can. 

    Thanksgiving is an ongoing celebration. Every day ought to be a day of gratitude, acknowledging the blessings and grace Jesus has bestowed upon us. I am blessed with a wise and understanding wife.  Indeed, the occasion of Thanksgiving should serve as a reminder that the Coming of the Lord is imminent. The Advent season prepares us for the renewed presence of Emmanuel. This message does not pertain to the commercially driven Christmas but instead emphasizes salvation and the coming of the Savior of the World.

Final Judgement!

Reflecting on my Final Judgment, I did so with deep thought and heartfelt sincerity. I wondered if, when I kneel before Jesus, He will see me as faithful. I longed to be among those He accepts, but I have often felt so weak throughout my life. It’s only by God's divine grace that I can face my challenges. I had many questions about what my final scenario might look like, even turning to AI to understand its concept of God and its perception of humanity’s final fate from a nonhuman perspective. Keep in mind that these questions are only a guess at what the Judge would ask us. Our thoughts or actions are not aligned with God’s. We don’t have a clue. You can replace any of these questions with your own. This is my method of demonstrating that it is never too late to seek salvation and redemption. Remember, this session will determine the separation of goats and sheep, as well as our ultimate destination: heaven, hell, or purgatory.

Let’s begin.

You stand in a great stillness—no wind, no shadows, only a light that feels both like morning and eternity. It isn’t harsh. It isn’t blinding. It seems to move through you rather than around you, uncovering everything gently, like someone lifting veils you didn’t realize you wore.

And then you sense Him. 

It's not just a figure, a throne, or a spectacle; it's a profound sense of Presence. The One who created galaxies with a single word now seems to speak straight to your heart. His voice isn't loud and thunderous but gentle and full of truth, like a caring father calling to his child. He begins not with accusation, but with a question. The kind that seems to echo through your entire life at once. 

“Whom did you love above all?” 

            Your memories gently emerge like a soft mist, reminding you of what you chased, treasured, and clung to when everything else faded away. You recall Jesus’ words, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart...” and feel the question seep even deeper: Did your heart ever truly try to make space for Me? Another question follows, gentle but penetrating. 

“How did you treat the people I placed in your path?” 

            Faces appear—some you loved easily, some you struggled with, some you barely noticed. He isn’t tallying your kindness or your failures. Jesus is asking whether you ever saw Him in “the least of these,” just as He said you would. 

Any regrets?

Regrets often linger quietly in the corners of your memory—reminding us of words we left unspoken, opportunities we missed, or choices we'd like to change. They teach you, sometimes painfully, about your true values and deepest desires. While regrets can feel burdensome, they also hold wisdom: revealing who you are, who you're becoming, and how you want to proceed differently. Facing them honestly allows regrets to become guides rather than weights, helping you live intentionally with the time and opportunities you have left. Did I learn anything? 

Was it worth the price of your soul to protect those who did wrong for the sake of wealth? 

When someone sacrifices their integrity to protect wrongdoers, especially for money, the result often feels empty. Money may shield the body, but it can't quiet the mind or mend the inner cracks. What is preserved outwardly usually costs dearly inwardly — peace, dignity, and self-respect. Ultimately, wealth can be spent, lost, or forgotten, but the choices that influence the soul linger much longer. The real question isn't whether it was worth it, but what remains once temporary gains fade, and if one can restore what was given away. No matter what we have accumulated in life, we cannot take it with us in death. 

“Did you walk in the truth you were given?” 

            Not the truth you wished you had, or the truth you avoided, but the truth you knew. “To whom much is given, much will be required.” You sense that God is not measuring you against others, but only against the light that touched your own life. 

This was a question you had never considered before. Honestly? You’ve told many lies, so it’s hard to say. Even if you knew the truth you were given, you didn’t remember that whenever you lied. You see Jesus write something down in the Book of Life, once again. Please, Lord, no more questions.  You’re wondering if it would be better to look at videos of your secret indiscretions and decided to stick with the questions. What can you hide from God? He nodded and smiled with loving kindness. 

“What did you do with the gifts I entrusted to you?” 

Your talents, your time, your chances to bless or to build. You see moments where you used them well, and others where you buried them in fear, distraction, or pride. He does not scold. He asks as a father who remembers every seed He placed in His child’s hands.

Then the light seems to draw closer, resting tenderly on the deepest places of your heart. 

“Did your outward life reflect an inward change?” 

            You recall how Scripture says the Lord looks at the heart. Not the appearance. Not the reputation. What you truly desired. Why did you do what you did? What you clung to, and what you surrendered. 

And then, with surprising tenderness, Jesus asked.

“When you failed, and you did, did you seek My counsel?”  

You remember moments of repentance and moments of stubbornness. Yet the tone of the question is warm, as if He is reminding you that He always waited, always listened, always stood ready to forgive. “If we confess our sins…” echoes softly. 

Then comes a question that feels like the foundation beneath every other one. 

“Did you ever trust Me?” 

            Not just believe in My existence, but entrust Me with your fears, your wounds, your hopes, your eternity. Your soul recalls the truth. “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” That’s when I remembered, will Jesus find someone who is faithful when He returns? 

Finally, His voice becomes like a quiet river running through every moment of your life.  

“Did My grace and mercy change you?” 

            Did you hear about it, or did it truly impact you? Did you embrace it, or try to fight against it? Did you allow My love to break chains, soften your heart, and guide you? Make you new? You stand there, not condemned, but known, fully, finally, lovingly known. 

And in that moment, you understand the judgment of God is not just a verdict, but a revealing, a bringing to light of who you truly became in the presence of His truth, His mercy, and His grace. 

The light around you deepens—not brighter, but fuller, like a warmth spreading through the coldest corners of your soul. It is then that you realize the questions were never meant to expose you to shame, but to reveal the truth of your own story, the story God has watched unfold from the first beat of your heart.

Jesus moves closer. Not with steps, there is no ground here, no horizon, just the unmistakable drawing of a Presence whose nearness feels like healing, like home. And then Jesus asks one more question, softer than all the others.

 

“Did you ever believe that I love Me?” 

 

The words settle over you like a warm blanket on a cold night.

You remember moments when you felt unworthy, when you pulled away, when you carried wounds you thought too broken to show Him. But you also remember moments when His peace slipped quietly into your fear, when His forgiveness washed over your failures, when His grace lifted you from depths you could not climb alone. You feel the truth. His love was always there, constant, patient, pursuing.

 

The light gathers around you, and with it comes a sense of being wrapped, embraced, seen without any fragment of yourself hidden or misunderstood. The weight of your life—its joys, its wounds, its victories, its regrets—rests in His hands, and you sense no anger in Him. Only love. Only a Father’s heart. Then, without sound, without motion, you feel His verdict. Only truth. Not a sentence, not a decree, but a welcome. A welcome into a fullness you glimpsed in flashes during your life but never understood until now. A welcome into rest, the kind Jesus promised: “I go to prepare a place for you.” A welcome into a love that doesn’t merely surround you, but transforms you, completes you. You realize that judgment, in God’s presence, is not simply the weighing of deeds, but the unveiling of grace, the healing of every fracture, and the final answering of the deepest longing of the human spirit. To be fully known and fully loved.

 

The light spreads outward like the opening of eternity, and you step into it, not in fear, not in uncertainty, but in the quiet assurance that the One who judges is also the One who saves, restores, and calls you His own. And as you pass into that everlasting dawn, you understand at last that every question He asked was truly an invitation, an invitation into Him, into love, into life without end. 

 

No one knows what will happen at the end, nor has anyone ever told the story of the final judgement. There have been near-death experiences. I believe their spirits were still present in the body.

 

 

Finding Peace, While Enduring Calamity Around Me!

I'm extremely frustrated with the current political situation. It feels like there's a lot of blame-shifting and childishness, and I wish everyone would focus on what’s truly in the best interest of all Americans, regardless of party. It’s frustrating to see figures like “Choir Boy” Mike Johnson seeming to shield “Big Baby” and wrongdoers rather than addressing the real issues. The media often hesitates to criticize certain leaders and appears to accept risky, lawless actions, which is disheartening. There’s also a significant amount of dishonesty emanating from the Federal Government, the Department of Justice, and even the Supreme Court, which often covers up misinformation and deceit. It’s really disappointing to see how some politicians claim they care about veterans, the elderly, and the less fortunate, but their actions tell a different story. None of these men and women in important roles would choose to work without pay, especially considering the dedication federal workers have shown over the past two months.

 

No wonder people are angry, frustrated, and depressed. What can they expect good from this Congress and Administration? They set out from the outset to cause harm to this country. There was no intention to pass any laws benefiting the working class. Families are going hungry and homeless, and people are living off pennies a month to survive, while the richer get richer. We all know that the Party of Big Baby will not keep their promises about affordable care and work together with others.

 

I chose to stay home this Veterans’ Day, reflecting on the complex feelings involved. I felt a sense of betrayal and decided not to accept the free food offered to veterans, especially as many civilians faced losing SNAP Benefits and their federal jobs. It’s a reminder of the many difficult and nuanced issues that people are navigating. My wife and I really enjoy watching classic war movies, such as They Were Expendable, Sgt York, and Ensign Pulver. We also had a great time checking out the local Veterans Day Parade and tuning into the live stream of the New York City Veterans Parade. I was relaxed the whole day! No battling traffic, looking for parking places, standing in lines, or having small conversations.

 

Please try to understand my feelings towards the military, government, or people. There are more wonderful and genuine people than others, I won't name. Somehow, you run across the less thanks every now and then.  I really want to find my inner peace and avoid doing or saying anything I might regret later. Simply not exposing myself just to test my self-worth isn’t enough—what it truly shows is that I am capable of doing it. I need to take this journey to a deeper level, imagining how I would behave if God were present—that’s the real test of whether I am obedient and listening to His voice.

Love Forever!

It’s nothing like a constructive, loving reprimand that comes from someone who genuinely cares about you that makes a lasting imprint on your heart and spirit. It’s like east and west when you get a correction from a colleague or boss. They don’t really care as much about you as they care about the company you work for. Their passion is temporary; a friend or a loved one is permanent. My wife demonstrated that type of eternal passion, passed down through the Holy Spirit.

 

While we're talking about passing things down, let's also remember our loved ones who have passed away—our parents and friends. I’ll always cherish the love our ancestors gave us. Some of their actions seemed rough, but they were driven by love and a wish to shape our future. I think the most important thing to remember is the lessons we learned from them and passed on to their legacy. 

 

During holidays and special achievements, we truly feel their absence the most and wish we could share these precious moments with them. We will always carry them in our hearts, never forgetting them. They are an important part of our lives. Let’s show kindness and respect to one another, especially during this last quarter of the year. Thanksgiving and the birth of Jesus Christ are times for reflection and remembrance, not just commercial celebration.

 

Lord, Please Make Me Whole!

While attending church services, I wondered if I was doing enough to serve God. Setting aside my self-judgment as a sinner, I genuinely thought that He might not notice me. As a hypocrite, I am only fooling myself. I dislike some people’s behavior and tend to stereotype them. Unmercifully and unforgiving, without any understanding of the person, I put them in a box with the rest of those I had labeled as people to distrust. If I don’t like you, I don’t want to be around you. I can’t fake it. Where did my understanding go? What happened to my knowledge of the gifts from the Holy Spirit?

 

Every day, we face struggles that often go unnoticed. The truth is that the enemy targets our most vulnerable feelings—like doubt, fear, and insecurity. It's essential to equip ourselves daily with the power of the Word, protect our faith, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. We also have wonderful resources given to us by the Spirit—wisdom, knowledge, counsel, understanding, courage, piety, and reverence for the Lord. When we embrace these, along with the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control, we can walk the path of life with confidence and hope.

 

My problem is a futile attempt at rushing God. When will the abuse of power by politicians come to an end? It stops the necessary benefits for the survival of all Americans, wages war on immigrants and other countries, creates laws benefiting the wealthy and accepting bribes, protects pedophiles and lawbreakers, and uses religion as a façade. It makes me frustrated, more than angry. Frustrated that the American people aren’t doing anything about it. The illusion of peace deceives us while all the time, politicians are promoting hate and division in their quest to make America great again. It’s disgusting and pathetic. Meanwhile, I’m praying to God to make things right now. In the process, I question whether I have been forgiven of my past sins to be a faithful follower of God.

 

Health insurance rates are rising, which can feel frustrating. It’s understandable to wonder about the agreements that might be behind these increases, especially when families are struggling to make ends meet. Creating more employment opportunities with fair pay could truly make a difference, helping more people find affordable housing and live with dignity. These hopes are close to my heart. I also pray that leaders across communities—clergy, law enforcement, judges, pharmaceutical companies, and immigration officials—seek wise guidance to make thoughtful and compassionate choices.

 

How can I truly connect with the God I serve if I keep pressing Him for the kind of righteous judgment I want, according to my own timing? It's natural to feel uncertain about my faith at times, but I want to grow in confidence and self-worth. I realize that expecting an answer becomes easier when I am striving to be obedient and sincere in my walk with Him. Do I need to face the enemy’s lie that I don’t have enough or that God won’t do anything about it? Or will I believe God’s truth that I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living? As always, the choice is mine. I believe in God, not man, and God will meet my needs. Heavenly Father, forgive me for my doubt and lack of faith. Please help me to strengthen it.

 

 

We Serve a Merciful God!

Man constructs objects that serve his purposes. He trains animals to follow his commands meticulously. He engages in occupations that align with his preferences and methods. He votes for candidates who share his interests. He copulates with women to have children who will be obedient to him. Should anyone or anything oppose him or prove defective, he will discard them, humiliate them, and seek a replacement. Jeremiah 17:9 NIV “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” Don’t put anything past the heart of an evil person.

Meanwhile, the child lacks guidance in navigating this unmerciful world. He lacks the patience to rehabilitate or rebuild, as it may require considerable time or expense. It is more convenient to find something or someone that can be shaped or controlled to his desires. Man can be unforgiving and cold-hearted. He can be so unmerciful at times. Man has lost respect and reverence for God. He does not fear God, but he will call on Him when needed. We should be careful; God’s vengeance is quick and terrible.

According to the Bible, we are all created in the image and likeness of God, and His breath has been blown into our spirits. In theory, we are all brothers and sisters in the eyes of God. Yet, mankind’s first child, elder brother Cain, killed his younger brother Abel out of envy. The descendants of Israel and Ishmael continue their fight, and even now, we are still fighting and killing each other. Countless others, unrecorded, have carried on this cycle of no forgiveness, no mercy.

Mercy never walks; it runs. It is accessible and always available for the user. It patiently waits but is overlooked during times of emotional duress. It’s waiting along with forgiveness and love, but we don’t feel either one. But God, who is above all and is all, remains constant in love, mercy, and forgiveness. How many times have we all been forgiven? How many times have we asked for mercy and patience? How many times have we denied the same to others? By the Grace of God, we still stand. God still gives us time to repent and change our ways. I’m certain we will wait until the last minute to seek salvation rather than do so now. Moses asked the Pharaoh when he wanted the plagues removed, and the Pharaoh replied, “Tomorrow”, rather than now.

God will not be mocked. Just because we don’t see Him, doesn’t mean that He doesn’t exist. Remember Pharaoh. He ignored the warning signs. “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter.” Isaiah 5:20 NIV. These are the times we live in now. What can we do about it? Pray! When the time comes to vote, after you have done your research, for the candidate who best meets your needs. But never stop praying and trusting God. He is in control.

James Chapter Five Wealth POV!

James Chapter 5 warmly encourages us to embody integrity, patience, and trust in God. It begins with a heartfelt warning to the wealthy, reminding us to be careful using power and riches at the expense of others. Remember, this isn't a critique of wealth itself, but a warning to keep our hearts focused on what truly matters. James softly reminds us that relying too heavily on material possessions can create a false sense of security. He warns that riches can sometimes weaken our spirits if they overshadow faith, kindness, and fairness. Rest assured, the voices of the oppressed reach heaven, and divine justice will undoubtedly respond to those who exploit others for personal gain. 

He gently encourages everyone to stay patient during difficult times and to face trials with a trusting heart. Watching a farmer patiently wait for a bountiful harvest beautifully illustrates how believers should trust in God’s perfect timing. Spiritually, patience is a heartfelt discipline—learning to find peace in God’s promises, even when life seems unfair or uncertain. Just as the prophets endured persecution with unwavering faith, believers are encouraged to stay steadfast, confident that the Lord’s return will bring both mercy and renewal. 

James reminds us to avoid grumbling or judging one another, especially in difficult times, because it can be a hidden spiritual trap. Instead of giving in to frustration, believers are encouraged to turn to prayer and introspection. The chapter significantly illustrates how prayer and confession can lead to healing, emphasizing that genuine connection with God and others begins with open hearts. The prayer of faith not only brings physical healing but also refreshes the soul, helping believers feel united with divine strength and a caring community. 

Finally, James warmly encourages us to embrace compassion and spiritual responsibility. When we help others avoid mistakes, we become part of God’s loving work of redemption, covering a multitude of sins. Spiritually, this shows how vital grace is, a faith that not only sustains us but also brings healing and hope renewal.

Overall, James Chapter 5 beautifully reminds us of that genuine spirituality shines through patience, prayer, humility, and compassion. It encourages believers to keep eternity in their hearts, to let faith guide their wealth, their words, and their patience, trusting wholeheartedly that God’s justice and grace will ultimately prevail.

James Chapter Four Reminds Me of the Man In the Mirror!

James Chapter 4 serves as a heartfelt reminder, encouraging believers to reflect on the roots of their inner struggles and the attitude of their hearts before God. It emphasizes that true spirituality isn't just about external actions, but about inner transformation, the ongoing battle between our inner self and the Spirit. 

He continues to help us understand that the struggles people face often come from within. It's about the desires battling inside us. Spiritually, this is the ongoing clash between our flesh (ego, pride, self-will) and the Spirit (humility, surrender, divine love). When we feel disconnected from God, our desires tend to take over. Prayer can sometimes become self-focused, yearning for what comforts us rather than what honors God. The heartfelt invitation here is to gently realign our desires with God's divine purpose, guiding us back to a place of harmony and connection. 

James reminds the reader that friendship with the world can create distance from God. Spiritually, “the world” often reflects a focus on pride, ambition, and self-interest. When we look for validation, power, or comfort from worldly sources, it can grieve the Spirit. But there's good news: God’s grace is always available. He gives more grace to those who humble themselves. Embracing humility can truly deepen our connection with Him and invite divine closeness. 

Submitting to God and resisting the devil is a powerful journey. True resistance starts with surrender, as drawing close to God helps cleanse our souls, touching both our actions and inner hearts. Remember, humility is not about weakness but about alignment, trusting in divine strength rather than relying solely on ourselves. When we humble ourselves before God, He lifts us spiritually, fostering growth and grace.  

Spiritually, judgment often comes when we forget about grace. Speaking against others means stepping into God’s role as Judge. The Spirit guides us to discern wisely, not to condemn love that corrects gently without pride. When we recognize our own need for mercy, we're more willing to show it to others.

James gently reminds us of the delicacy of life, encouraging us to trust in divine timing. It's a warm reminder that boasting about plans can distance us from recognizing God’s ultimate control. Instead, the wise person quietly reminds themselves, “If the Lord wills,” embracing each moment with surrender and trust.

In the end, the message of James 4 is clear: replace pride with humility, conflict with peace, and self-centered plans with divine dependence. True spirituality is not about appearance or ambition but about inner transformation, having a heart that yields, trusts, and walks humbly with God. Look in the mirror and see for yourself.

 

 

 

 

Who Will America Turn To?

Who Can America Turn To?

America stands at a crossroads of conscience. The noise of politics, profit, and pride often drowns out the quiet voice of truth. Many ask, “Who can we turn to?” But perhaps the real question is: “When will we return to God?” Our greatest strength was never our wealth, nor our weapons, nor our worldly power. It was our soul — the belief that every person bears a spark of divine worth. Yet when that truth is forgotten, division becomes easy, and compassion feels costly. 

We can no longer wait for heroes or saviors to rise from the political stage or from any stage for that matter. The renewal of a nation begins not in Washington, but in the unseen corners of the human heart — in the mother who forgives, the teacher who uplifts, the neighbor who listens, the citizen who speaks truth without hate. These are the quiet keepers of America’s moral light. Spiritually, we must turn upward again — toward the Divine, toward that sacred presence that humbles the proud and strengthens the weary. Whether we call it God, conscience, or love, it is that higher reality that reminds us we are not our own masters. A nation that bows to nothing greater than itself slowly bows to nothing at all. 

So, what will it take to get God back into people’s lives?

We can listen again to the ancient call that still whispers: Do justice. Love mercy. Walk humbly. If we return to that path — not just as a slogan but as a way of life — the soul of America can still be saved. Yes, we all experience stress and anxiety in some form or another, but we must see it as a distraction from our goals. I know it’s tough; I go to therapy, practice Tai Chi, and do mindfulness. It’s easy to get distracted. Find something calming that isn’t drugs or alcohol. I’ve tried alcohol but refused drugs; neither works.

Look around. Youth are succumbing at a higher rate than older individuals. They are not experiencing fulfilling lives due to stress, confusion, and misinformation. They are unable to endure the pervasive darkness enveloping the nation, which is concealed under the guise of religion. The Pharisees, Herodians, and Sadducees, equivalent to contemporary evangelicals, are collaborating with political bigots, discriminators, and divisive figures under the pretense of preserving Christianity. Birds of a feather flock together.

What’s problematic with a woke society? Overlooking social awareness might make us blind to real injustices and suffering that need our care. A better approach could be to listen carefully: hold onto what’s true and compassionate, and let go of what’s driven by ideology or pressure. The real issue is falling for lie after lie, often used to degrade those opposing justice, equality, and civil rights. Consequently, following the ways of Jesus Christ.

Will There Ever Be Peace in Gaza?

I’m pleased to see that the Jewish hostages have finally been released and are now back home with their loved ones. After such a long time away in a prison, where Hamas held them, this moment of freedom and being reunited with their families helps ease the pain they've endured. I wonder if this peace will last forever or just be temporary. The news mentioned that the peace agreement hasn’t been finalized yet, and that Hamas and Israel haven't agreed on the details. The person who brokered the hostage release seems to bask in the praise as the “greatest friend that the state of Israel has ever had in the White House,” but honestly, he’s been known to stretch the truth quite a bit, making it hard to trust every word he says. Will there really be Peace in Gaza?

The Palestinians are in urgent need of food, medicine, and other essential humanitarian aid, which has started reaching Gaza. Efforts are also in progress to release around 2,000 Palestinians held by Israel. The Gaza we once knew has been devastated. Over the past two years, more than 10% of Gaza’s population has been killed or injured, approximately 90% of residents have been displaced, and about 78% of buildings have been destroyed or damaged. Additionally, 95% of hospitals are no longer operational, and 90% of schools have been damaged or destroyed. Thousands of displaced Palestinians are now walking through the heartbreaking ruins of their neighborhoods and homes, trying to find safety and hope amid the destruction.

Rebuilding Gaza will require billions of dollars and many years. Given how challenging this situation is, President Trump’s plan seems to resemble a hostage-release deal —a temporary ceasefire with an uncertain future —and some hope. The vague mention of a “pathway” to Palestinian independence reminds us of past negotiations, where the promise of an eventual Palestinian state often served as a cover-up for a harsh, unfair, and tense situation; sadly, this has sometimes led to the significant violence we've seen in recent years.

While many Americans view the situation in Gaza with concern—some even seeing it as genocide or war crimes—Trump has seldom shown sympathy for Palestinian civilians or acknowledged their suffering. His initial approach to Gaza involved a plan that did not consider the needs of its people. 

The 20-point Trump peace plan lacks many details and clear principles. It raises questions like who will oversee Gaza in the meantime, and where the billions needed for rebuilding will come from if a lasting political solution isn't reached in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The plan states that Israel will not “occupy or annex Gaza,” and that Hamas “will not have” any direct or indirect role in governing Gaza, offering some reassurance amid the uncertainties. How is it that Trump is being praised for “joining the Israeli hostages with their families when the Palestinian prisoners will not go home but will be sent to another country. Meanwhile, Israel is still holding several thousand Palestinians in prison. Trump has evaded the blame for separating immigrant children from their parents in America! Where is the scorn for that? But being a hero on foreign soil, to me, doesn’t say much about what he’s doing here in America. MAGAs are all over the world, including Christians and Jews.

Spider Webs!

The spider web gently teaches us an essential lesson about deception. It shows us that not all dangers are loud or obvious; some are hidden in stillness, blending seamlessly into the scenery. The web’s perfect design is its clever disguise; its symmetry and delicate appearance are alluring, even though its primary purpose is to trap. Similarly, deception often appears to be the truth — smooth, convincing, and carefully crafted. The spider doesn’t rush or chase; it patiently waits. Its power comes from patience and careful planning, much like someone who creates illusions rather than confrontations. But here's a little irony: even the spider becomes caught in its own web, never truly free from what it has spun. The same goes for those who weave lies — they often end up caught in their own stories, held together by the very fragility of their deception. In this way, the web serves as both a symbol and a reflection of itself. This is a silent reminder that what traps others can also trap ourselves. 

The spider web as an analogy for deception has been around for thousands of years, drawing from various cultures, mythologies, and philosophies. It didn't happen at just one moment; rather, it developed naturally as people watched spiders and connected their intricate webs to ideas of cleverness, patience, and hidden threats. I watched the spider weave its web outside my bathroom window and thought about how patiently it weaves its web.

The symbolism of the spider and its web has roots in both African and Greek mythology. In West African stories, the trickster character Anansi is often depicted as a clever spider who uses wit and trickery to get by, linking the web to cleverness and cunning. Similarly, in Greek myths, the story of Arachne, a mortal weaver turned into a spider by Athena, connects the web to pride, creativity, and deception. Arachne’s story shows how her skill, which deceived the gods, came with a moral lesson. Spiders are, of course, arachnids, which ties into this symbolism. In the Book of Job 8:14-15, the spider’s web is used as a metaphor for false confidence and trickery, saying that the “hope of the godless shall perish, whose trust is a spider’s web.” This makes it one of the earliest examples of the web being used as a symbol for fragile and deceptive appearances. 

During the Middle Ages, moralists and poets likened the spider’s web to a powerful symbol of sin, temptation, and worldly traps, creating vivid imagery. It also appeared in Christian stories, where the devil’s snares were compared to webs that ensnare the unwary soul. Moving into the Enlightenment and Romantic periods, the web transformed into a symbol of complex systems of influence and control—whether political, social, or psychological. Thinkers and writers like Nietzsche, Emerson, and later existentialists often used this imagery to explore how truth, illusion, and moral choices can become tangled and intertwined.

Although we can’t determine an exact birthdate for the analogy, its core idea, that deception can be concealed within beauty and structure, has been around for over 3,000 years. The connection to the spider web is quite fitting since the web is both a trap and a disguise, symbolizing how hidden dangers can be cloaked in beauty or innocence. 

The Manipulation of Women in Socio-Economic America!

Even though we've seen progress through laws, social movements, and increased awareness, manipulation still exists, and it can be a bit more subtle these days. Here's a closer look at some aspects of this reality: influential men in politics, media, and entertainment continue to shape stories about what women “should” be in their roles, bodies, voices, and worth. These narratives can sometimes exacerbate feelings of dependency or self-doubt, inadvertently reinforcing systems of power in the process. Gender pay gaps, unequal promotion opportunities, and subtle coercion (like favors in exchange for advancement) show how power is often leveraged to control or exploit women’s economic standing.

Emotional and Psychological Manipulation at interpersonal and institutional levels, such as gaslighting, silencing, or portraying women as too emotional, irrational, and assertive, continue to be tools used to undermine their credibility and influence. Male-dominated institutions often shape policies involving women’s bodies, rights, and reproductive choices. This control is indirect but profoundly impactful; it manipulates autonomy under the guise of protection or morality.

That said, women are also more aware and empowered than ever to challenge and expose these dynamics; from #MeToo to movements for equal pay, reproductive justice, and representation. The manipulation continues, but the resistance and consciousness have become just as powerful.

Throughout history, the way powerful men have influenced women has often been more about control than gender itself; controlling stories, identities, and futures. Even though the faces of power have changed over time, the underlying mindset remains the same: dominance depends on maintaining inequality, and manipulation is often its subtle tool. At its heart, manipulation doesn’t always shout or force; it frequently hides behind acts of guidance, protection, or love. Whether in politics, religion, or media, influential men have long presented themselves as protectors of women, while subtly shaping the boundaries of their freedom. When a system measures a woman’s worth by her obedience, beauty, or service, it doesn’t just limit her; it also persuades her to accept her own confinement.

This manipulation doesn’t come from strength but from a deep-seated fear; fear of women’s autonomy, intelligence, and collective strength. When women own their minds, they’re harder to control than those who doubt themselves. That’s why manipulation often begins in the realm of belief. What is shaping women to learn to value, what makes them feel guilty, and what they believe they deserve? You can see this play out today in many ways: in workplaces where women are told to tone it down, in media that markets empowerment as something to buy, and in politics where women’s bodies are seen as battlegrounds for morality. Although the tools have changed over time, the goal remains the same: to maintain power in the hands of those who have always held it, thereby preserving the status quo.

Something has shifted, and it’s truly inspiring. The silence that once hid manipulation is breaking apart. Modern women can now see through illusions, speak their truths confidently, and take charge of their own stories. Movements advocating for equality and justice are more than just protests; they’re influential acts of philosophical resistance, a bold refusal to be shaped by fear or flattery. Ultimately, the way women have been manipulated by those in power highlights more about the fragility of that power than about women’s weakness. It reveals how deeply society fears proper balance and how freeing it can be when we call out deception. When women recognize their full potential, the structures of control start to fall apart. What was once manipulation becomes exposed, and what was once silence turns into revolution.

 

Was the 2024 Election Rigged?

    I've been curious about the results of the 2024 Presidential Election and the differences between the popular vote and the electoral college. I wondered why no one really challenged the final count—especially since Trump, back in 2020, claimed it was rigged. It appears that Electoral College members from Red States followed orders quite blindly, likely out of fear of the consequences. Meanwhile, the Blue States split their votes, favoring the Republican nominee. Trump secured the popular vote with about 49.8%, which always puzzled me because the margin wasn’t overwhelming—many people didn’t vote at all, possibly influenced by the presence of a woman candidate or political biases. I imagine some support from the Free Palestine Movement might have been influenced by their reaction to Biden and Trump. Ultimately, though, it seems we got the result we expected.

    I came across a fascinating article in Forbes, written by Ron Schmelzer on September 25, 2025, discussing how AI models behaved similarly to voters during the 2024 election. Researchers from MIT and Stanford monitored 11 of the world’s top large language models (LLMs), including GPT-4, Claude, and Gemini. These models weren’t just answering questions—they engaged actively in conversations during four critical months of the 2024 presidential campaign. Over the course of the study, more than 12,000 structured questions were asked nearly every day from July to November 2024. It's a pioneering and comprehensive examination of how these AI models behave during real-world democratic events. The results? These models are more than neutral observers; they tend to react, sometimes show inconsistency, and can even be influenced by public narratives, even when they ideally shouldn’t be. 

    This indicates that chatbots can be easily influenced, not only by the questions people ask, but also by what they recall from previous conversations. However, the study couldn’t test chatbots with memory, mainly because it would have been too costly, as they would have needed thousands of accounts for the experiments. This highlights broader concerns about how models might drift over time due to their personalization. A chatbot with memory could become more biased simply by recalling past interactions, which could reinforce earlier impressions and amplify the effects of how prompts are written. 

    Reflecting on all this, it’s hard not to feel that these advanced technologies like LLMs and chatbots might have influenced the election’s outcome. I also think Trump and his party were aware of this, as he even mentioned once that he might have rigged the previous election. He's still closely connected to Elon Musk, who has developed AI systems such as Grok and xAI, and recently announced a deal with the government to allow federal agencies to use their chatbot for a small fee. Meanwhile, the Russians had their own chatbots and knew how to potentially sway Trump’s leadership for their own benefit. Social media helps connect the dots, leaving voters unaware of what’s really happening. Don’t forget about the voting machines, which can also cause issues with laws for redistricting and vote suppression. Currently, voters face numerous challenges and uncertainties. Who can we really trust? Big brother is watching us

Should There be National Concern about Voting Machine Irregularities Before the 2026 Election?

Absolutely, yes. Understandably, many people are concerned about irregularities or vulnerabilities in voting machines as we approach the 2026 U.S. elections. There are several ongoing issues and risks—some are being addressed, while others still require attention. I’ll share my thoughts about what I researched and found, discuss the risks, outline the steps being taken, and highlight what still needs our attention. 

Current Status of State Voting Machines

1. Aging Equipment

·      Many voting machines in the U.S. are old — often over 10 years old, in some cases even older — and have surpassed their expected lifespan. Older machines tend to be more difficult to maintain (spare parts may no longer be available), more prone to breakdowns, and often run outdated software that may not receive security updates. ([Brennan Center for Justice][1])

2. Security Vulnerabilities & Software Threats

·      There have been documented reports of attempts to access copies of voting system software illegally. A letter from computer scientists expressed concerns that these breaches could pose significant risks to election security. ([Colorado Public Radio][2]) 

·      Some machines come equipped with features such as wireless connectivity or older, unsupported operating systems. While these can offer convenience, they may also increase the risk of security vulnerabilities. ([Brennan Center for Justice][3]) 

·      Even when vulnerabilities are identified, such as with Dominion systems, investigations—including those by Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)—have not uncovered any evidence that these flaws were exploited in significant national elections in the past. However, their presence still highlights a potential risk. ([The Washington Post][4])

3. Human Error & Operational Issues

·      Sometimes irregularities are less about malicious hacking and more about mechanical failures, calibration errors (e.g., touchscreens mis-registering selections), mis-scanning, delays, or mismanagement. These may not change outcomes, but can harm confidence and create logistical headaches. ([Brennan Center for Justice][3]) 

4. Disinformation & Trust Erosion

·      Even if there's no clear evidence of large-scale manipulation, it's important to acknowledge that suspicion, claims of fraud, and distrust can still be quite significant. Sometimes, even small irregularities can be amplified through social media and political discussions, making them appear more significant than they actually are. ([AP News][5])

What Is Being Done?

·      Some jurisdictions are replacing obsolete machines or planning upgrades. ([Brennan Center for Justice][6])

·      There are calls from experts to mandate more uniform security standards, require post-election audits, improve paper trail verifiability, etc. ([Center for American Progress][7])

·      There is increased scrutiny by federal agencies (like CISA) and state/local election officials for vulnerabilities and risk mitigation. ([Brennan Center for Justice][8])

All are dependent on who is holding the power in the current government.

What Are the Risks? What Remains to Be Solved?

1. Funding & resources

·      Upgrading machines and putting in stronger security and audit systems does require some investment. Often, local jurisdictions struggle to allocate sufficient funds for these improvements. Additionally, there's sometimes confusion about whether the state, federal government, or local authorities should cover the costs. ([Brennan Center for Justice][9]) 

2. Uniform standards and oversight

·      Security and audit protocols can vary significantly from state to state and county to county. Some areas might not have robust post-election auditing or transparency measures in place. ([Brennan Center for Justice][6])

3. Maintaining the Voters’ Trust

·      Even if machines are technically secure, it's important to remember that public perception truly matters. Minor errors, glitches, or delays in counting can create doubts, especially in close races. That's why staying transparent and dependable is so essential.

4. Emerging Threats

·      As technology continues to evolve, so does our vulnerability. Concerns include machine learning, supply chain attacks, and insider threats. Exciting new research, such as the application of adversarial machine learning to tabulators, highlights how even minor vulnerabilities can, under specific circumstances, significantly impact outcomes. ([arXiv][10])

Ensuring the integrity of election results is vital to supporting our democracy. Even infrequent failures or irregularities can have significant political and social consequences, especially in closely contested states. Being proactive and prepared can save us from much higher costs later on when issues arise. Keeping voter confidence strong is essential; even small irregularities or the perception of them can discourage voting or lead to distrust in the process.

[1]: https://www.brennancenter.org/issues/defend-our-elections/election-security/voting-machines-infrastructure"Voting Machines & Infrastructure | Brennan Center for Justice"

[2]: https://www.cpr.org/2023/12/05/voting-experts-warn-of-serious-threats-for-2024-from-election-equipment-software-breaches "Voting experts warn of 'serious threats' for 2024 from election equipment software breaches"

[3]: https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/americas-voting-machines-risk "America’s Voting Machines at Risk | Brennan Center for Justice"

[4]: https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2022/05/28/dominion-voting-machines-cisa-review "No evidence of exploitation of Dominion voting machine flaws, CISA finds - The Washington Post"

[5]: https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-technology-d6bf92f594343d7a489d40394e56e2a1"EXPLAINER: Threats to US election security grow more complex | AP News"

[6]: https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/americas-voting-machines-risk-update "America’s Voting Machines at Risk – An Update | Brennan Center for Justice"

[7]: https://www.americanprogress.org/article/election-infrastructure-vulnerabilities-solutions "Election Infrastructure: Vulnerabilities and Solutions - Center for American Progress"

[8]: https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/voting-system-security-and-reliability-risks "Voting System Security and Reliability Risks | Brennan Center for Justice"

[9]: https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/voting-machines-risk-2022 "Voting Machines at Risk in 2022 | Brennan Center for Justice"

[10]: https://arxiv.org/abs/2506.14582 "Busting the Paper Ballot: Voting Meets Adversarial Machine Learning"

Here’s a clear and detailed risk assessment for voting-machine irregularities as we approach the 2026 election. This highlights what’s likely, considers worst-case scenarios, identifies the principal vulnerabilities with examples, evaluates their seriousness, and offers practical priorities to minimize risks. I’ve included the key sources supporting these critical points.

While it's essential to stay aware of national issues, the most significant problems tend to be minor glitches, delays, and incidents that can erode trust, rather than central nationwide manipulation. The country has made considerable progress over the past decade, with more than 98% of votes now recorded on paper, though some hurdles persist. These include aging equipment, inconsistent audit standards, limited funding, and the ongoing challenge of disinformation. Additionally, there's concern about the current administration seemingly using the Judicial Branch for its own purposes.

Keep in mind, your vote truly matters. It’s your chance to have a say in shaping your community, your state, and your country. Remember all those who fought, marched, and sacrificed so we could have this right. If long lines, doubts, or distractions come up, don’t let them stop you—your participation makes a difference. When you step into that voting booth, know that you’re not just voting for yourself, but for a better future for everyone. Your vote counts, and your voice is so important!